Hundreds of dancers shimmied to the beat to raise money for a children’s hospital that saved the life of their instructor’s daughter.

Two-year-old Jessica Matthews had to have a lifesaving brain operation when she was less than a year old after being diagnosed with fluid on the brain.

In tribute to the care Jessica received at Great Ormond Street Hospital, her mother Nikki Matthews, of Borehamwood, helped organise a fundraiser with fitness instructor Esther Shortt at St Paul’s Church, in The Ridgeway, Mill Hill.

The group raised more than £1,000 at Friday night's party, with guests from Zumba clubs in Whetstone and Barnet.

Mrs Matthews said: “I was overwhelmed and upset, but I kept strong.

“The doctors and nurses were surprised how well Jessica recovered, she was ready to go home three days after the operation.

“She was very lucky and I will be eternally grateful to Great Ormond Street for what they did, if it wasn’t for them she might not be here.”

Ms Shortt said: “The event was great, there was a real buzz in the air. Jessica was our inspiration – the incredible amount we raised is down to her.”